I've gone up three times: once via Needles and twice via the Sylvan Lake route. Both were fun and very pretty. The first time I was above the clouds. Gorgeous. The last time I got to see a thunderstorm roll in just to the north of us. No trip to The Black Hills should be without this hike.

Dreary day in SD; had some light rain early in climb, but cleared a bit at summit. USGS markers (3) found 50-100 yards East (I think) of summit tower, on clearly identifiable alternate peak. A mountain goat was standing watch nearby on my summit day.

This is a very scenic hike... especially in winter, at 3am, because there are no tourists. I was in Rapid City in mid-December for work, working crazy hours each day, and the only time I could sneak away to climb this was at 3 am, returning in time to go back to work.

More people on this than any mountain in CO I have ever done. We were using treking poles, and we got lots of comments from people about our "ski poles". Summit view was nice. Overall I was annoyed most of the time by the people on this hike.

Headed over to SD to visit the Needles, but after a night thunderstorm, Josh and I headed up this state high point instead. Started raining at the summit and in earnest when we got back to the car. On the way down, we saw about 12 or so kids in sweatshirts on their way up. Wonder how they're doing now. There are flash flood and high wind warnings in effect for the region now; 44°F in town. I haven't seen this much rain in ages - you definately get spoiled in the Sierras. My 7th state highpoint.